Prepping for Flu Season

Now that children are returning to the classroom, there is a growing concern that the H1N1 virus (swine flu) may spread at increasing rates. Lani Wheeler, M.D. a pediatrician in Annapolis, Maryland and a member of the American Academy of Pediatricians' Council on School Health, notes that children are the major source of flu transmission and are more susceptible to this virus than adults, and so it's essential to teach them why they need to be careful. First, she says, reinforce to children the importance of regular hand washing with soap and water, and proper coughing and sneezing etiquette. After they've coughed or sneezed into a tissue they should always throw the tissue directly into the trash. It's also vital that anyone who feels sick stay home from school or work. "Keep the virus to yourself", says Lisa Barrios, who is responsible for Guidance Development for H1N1 at the Center for Disease Control (CDC) in Atlanta.

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What should you keep on hand in case the flu hits your home? While "nothing beats soap and water," Barrios says the CDC recommends carrying an alcohol-based hand sanitizer for extra protection, if you're on the go and can't get to a sink or water fountain. Look for a sanitizer, like Purell, that contains at least 60% alcohol.

Other items to stock for flu season: Plenty of tissues, a thermometer (an oral, digital kind is best), clear liquids, pain relievers, and common flu and cold medicines. While over- the-counter medications won't actually fight the virus, they can help alleviate symptoms. As for keeping your home germ free, products such as Clorox wipes are an easy and efficient way to disinfect surfaces, such as doorknobs, keyboards, and countertops.